Columbia Savings & Loan Association celebrates 100 year anniversary

On Thursday, October 24, 2024, Columbia Savings & Loan Association (CSLA), the only black-owned bank in Wisconsin and the 6th oldest in the nation, celebrated the institution’s 100 year anniversary with a dinner and program at The Trade Hotel, 420 W. Juneau Ave. Guests enjoyed an evening of dinner and music by DJ Phil Money, as a century of dedication to creating opportunities and promoting financial stability within the community was celebrated. The event was hosted by Bailey Coleman and featured remarks from representatives from CSLA, as well as Milwaukee County Chairwoman Marcelia Nicholson; Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley; VP and General Counsel of Wisconsin Banker’s Association (WBA) Heather MacKinnon; and Secretary of State Sarah Godlewski.

Established in 1924 by visionary founders Ardie and Wilbur Halyard, Columbia has been a cornerstone of the community, making the dream of homeownership a reality for countless individuals in Milwaukee and the greater Milwaukee area for a remarkable 100 years and remains committed to fostering financial well-being and empowerment, playing a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of Milwaukee and beyond.

“We are immensely proud to have served the Milwaukee community for the past century and look forward to continuing our mission of empowerment and prosperity for many years to come,” said Ernest Jones, President and CEO of CSLA.